Agristress Helpline Available For Producers, 24/7

In Oregon’s agriculture community, mental health matters.  Oregon State University Extension is working to remind farmers, ranchers, and rural families statewide that they are never alone.

That’s where the Agristress HelpLine comes in.

Kaycee Headley with OSU Extension said people often think the HelpLine is only for reaching out to get help for themselves.  But she pointed out that making contact for a loved one can be just as important.  She stressed that when calling for a loved one, it’s important to share accurate information.

“If you call the help line and let's, say you're concerned about your spouse, the folks at the end of the helpline are, they're going to give you good, strong information that you can pass along to a loved one,” Headley said.

Farmers Reminded They Don't Have To Go It Alone

She added caregivers and family members need support when we're dealing with somebody who may be experiencing challenging emotions.  She said it’s important for everyone in the industry to realize we all need help, and there’s no trophy for doing it all on your own.

“We all have these challenging emotions," Headley added.  "One thing that we notice in the work that we do when we travel around the state is that people, when given the opportunity, I think really appreciate the opportunity to talk to somebody about the way they're feeling. And this is the Agristress HelpLine is completely free, totally confidential.”

The AgriStress HelpLine is a free, 24/7 hotline for Oregon's agricultural and forestry communities, including farmers, ranchers, fishermen, foresters, and their families.  Call or text: (833) 897-2474.  All calls are answered within 30 seconds. 

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com